Camelback Mountain
Iconic Phoenix peak offering strenuous hikes with challenging rock scrambles and rewarding panoramic city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Camelback Mountain
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Phoenix peak offering strenuous hikes with challenging rock scrambles and rewarding panoramic city views.
"This hike will kick your trash but in the good way, with views worth every drop of sweat!"
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring at least 60 oz of water per person. Dehydration is a serious risk, especially in the heat.
Sturdy Footwear Needed :athletic_shoe:
Hiking boots with good grip are essential for the rocky terrain and steep ascents/descents.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Summit of Camelback Mountain
Panoramic 360-degree views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert landscape. Absolutely breathtaking!
Echo Canyon Trail
Echo Canyon Trailhead
A challenging 2.6-mile out-and-back trail with steep inclines and significant rock scrambling.
Cholla Trail
Cholla Trailhead
Considered the slightly easier of the two main trails, still demanding with blue hash marks guiding the way.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Gear Up for the Challenge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring at least 60 oz of water per person. Dehydration is a serious risk, especially in the heat.
Sturdy Footwear Needed :athletic_shoe:
Hiking boots with good grip are essential for the rocky terrain and steep ascents/descents.
Gloves for Scrambling :hand_raised:
Consider bringing hiking gloves for better grip during the rock scrambling sections.
Check the Weather :sun_behind_cloud:
Temperatures can vary wildly. Be prepared for both cool winds and intense heat.
Tips
from all over the internet
Hydration is Key! 💧
Bring at least 60 oz of water per person. Dehydration is a serious risk, especially in the heat.
Sturdy Footwear Needed :athletic_shoe:
Hiking boots with good grip are essential for the rocky terrain and steep ascents/descents.
Gloves for Scrambling :hand_raised:
Consider bringing hiking gloves for better grip during the rock scrambling sections.
Check the Weather :sun_behind_cloud:
Temperatures can vary wildly. Be prepared for both cool winds and intense heat.
Sunrise Hike Recommended :sunrise:
Start before dawn to avoid the worst heat and enjoy a less crowded experience.
No Dogs Allowed :no_entry_sign:
Leave your furry friends at home; pets are not permitted on the trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers consistently praise Camelback Mountain for its challenging trails and breathtaking summit views, calling it a must-do in Phoenix. However, many warn about the intense heat and the strenuous nature of the climb, advising visitors to be extremely well-prepared with water and proper footwear. Crowds can also be a significant issue, especially on weekends.
"It was one of the most amazing experience I’ve ever had. Even though I’m an athlete, it was very difficult probably because I went at 12pm midday in the month of May. It was difficult but the view at the summit was worth it. Parking was free and access was also free. Stay safe, follow safety rules and stay hydrated."
Paul Osas
"This was such a beautiful hike, it is pretty difficult but so worth it. You hike most of your elevation in the beginning and so perfect. It’s super busy on the weekends, I recommend early in the morning on a weekday."
Maggie Sexton
"Very crowded on the weekends with limited parking. I would go early, like 5am early! 😌Beautiful scenery. Bring your hiking boots, hiking gloves and plenty of water!! No dogs allowed and nice clean restrooms."
Shre’e I
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Camelback Mountain is easily accessible by car. The two main trailheads are Echo Canyon and Cholla. Parking is available at both trailheads and is generally free. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also popular options for getting to the mountain, especially if you're staying in downtown Phoenix or Scottsdale.
Yes, both the Echo Canyon and Cholla trailheads offer parking lots. However, these lots can fill up very quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
While direct public transportation to the trailheads is limited, you can take a bus to a nearby stop and then walk or take a short ride-share to the trailhead. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
From downtown Phoenix, you can take a taxi or ride-share service, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Some visitors also opt for a bus route that gets them close to the mountain.
While many people hike alone, it's always recommended to hike with a buddy, especially on challenging trails like Camelback. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. The trails are generally well-trafficked, which can deter some safety concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Camelback Mountain is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. Access to the trails and parking is free.
Camelback Mountain is open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, it's strongly advised to start your hike well before sunset, especially if you're not familiar with the trails, due to the challenging terrain and potential for getting lost in the dark.
There is no entrance fee to hike Camelback Mountain. The park is free to access for all visitors.
While the park is technically open until sunset, hiking at night is strongly discouraged due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and the challenging nature of the trails. Stick to daylight hours.
No permits are required for general hiking on Camelback Mountain. It is a public park managed by the City of Phoenix.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The two most popular trails are the Echo Canyon Trail and the Cholla Trail. Echo Canyon is known for its steepness and rock scrambling, while Cholla is slightly longer but also very challenging. Both offer incredible summit views.
Camelback Mountain is considered a strenuous and challenging hike. Both the Echo Canyon and Cholla trails involve significant elevation gain (over 1,300 feet) and require rock scrambling, where you'll need to use your hands and feet.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction. Comfortable athletic clothing is recommended. Consider bringing gloves for the rock scrambling sections and a light jacket as temperatures can change.
It's crucial to bring plenty of water. Most hikers recommend at least 60 ounces per person, and even more if hiking during hotter months or at midday. Dehydration is a serious risk.
Yes, there are restrooms available at both the Echo Canyon and Cholla trailheads. They are generally well-maintained.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled panoramic views of Phoenix, perfect for sweeping landscape shots. Along the trails, especially on the Cholla Trail, you'll find interesting rock formations and unique perspectives of the city.
Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for photography. Sunrise offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while sunset provides a beautiful golden hour glow.
Tripods are generally allowed, but be mindful of other hikers, especially on crowded trails. Ensure your tripod setup doesn't obstruct the path or create a hazard.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the landscape. Consider a lightweight setup as you'll be carrying it on a strenuous hike.
General photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits. Always be respectful of other hikers and the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking a less strenuous but still scenic desert experience, exploring nearby parks like South Mountain Park or Papago Park might be a better alternative. These locations offer easier trails with beautiful desert landscapes and are generally more accessible for younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack all your own water and food. Consider staying in accommodations that offer free breakfast or have kitchen facilities to prepare your own meals. Utilizing ride-sharing services can also add up, so if you're on a tight budget, look into public transportation options or consider renting a car if you plan on visiting multiple attractions.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Many locals use Camelback for their regular training, tackling it multiple times a week. For an added challenge, consider timing your ascent or incorporating interval training. Remember to listen to your body, especially in the heat, and always prioritize safety. The summit offers a fantastic sense of accomplishment and a rewarding panorama for your efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Trail: Echo Canyon vs. Cholla
The Cholla Trail, also around 2.6 miles roundtrip, is often described as slightly less steep overall but still very strenuous. It tends to be a bit more winding and offers distinct sections of rock scrambling, with blue hash marks often used to mark the path. Many hikers recommend tackling Echo Canyon on the way up and descending via Cholla, or vice versa, to experience both. However, be aware that descending Cholla can be tricky due to loose rocks. Regardless of your choice, both trails demand good physical fitness, sturdy footwear, and plenty of water.
It's important to note that while these are the most popular, there are other less-trafficked routes, but they are generally more technical and not recommended for casual hikers. For most visitors, sticking to Echo Canyon or Cholla is the best bet for a safe and memorable hike.
Safety First: Staying Safe on Camelback Mountain
Wear appropriate footwear. Sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are essential for navigating the steep, rocky terrain and for the rock scrambling sections. Many hikers also suggest bringing gloves to protect your hands and improve your grip when climbing.
Finally, know your limits. This is a strenuous hike, and it's not for everyone. If you're not an experienced hiker or are not accustomed to extreme heat, consider a less challenging trail or visit during the cooler parts of the year. Starting your hike early in the morning, ideally before sunrise, is highly recommended to avoid the peak heat and crowds.
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